Credit management qualifications

Maltese business is increasingly benefiting from efficient credit management practices as the number of companies sharing credit information, as members of the Malta Association of Credit Management (MACM), grows. This is combined with investment in high quality training for credit management staff, reflecting a trend seen in the UK. The UK Skills for Business Network is promoting investment in vocational qualifications as research repeatedly links this positively with high productivity and high performing working practices.

MACM is the recognised teaching centre for Institute of Credit Management (ICM) to lecture credit management qualifications in Malta. Credit professionals and students aspiring to a career in credit management attend regular evening classes leading to the ICM Level 3 Certificate in Credit Management and the Level 5 Diploma in Credit Management. These qualifications are accredited by the English regulatory authority, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and have established progression routes to Honours, Masters and Doctorate Degrees in Credit Management. In addition, the ICM Diploma entitles holders to Graduate Membership of the UK-based ICM. The qualifications are relevant to those working in trade, consumer and export credit management and build to a broad and well recognised award.

MACM teaching staff, who are based in Mosta, are well qualified and were recently involved in teaching workshops led by Debbie Tuckwood, ICM head of education. She is an experienced lecturer and a specialist in vocational education who promotes effective teaching and learning techniques for adults. Ms Tuckwood believes that many adult learners underestimate their potential for success. With the right support and encouragement, however, most learners can progress to higher education. For graduates, the ICM courses provide vocational expertise; for those with limited qualifications, the course provides a passport to higher education and kickstarts a career in business. Debbie advocates individualised and active learning techniques centred on the accelerated learning model. These motivate and maximise learning opportunities. employers benefit from the increased skills and confidence of their credit management staff which more than justifies the small initial investment in training.

Josef Busuttil, MACM director general, welcomes the close association with the UK-based institute and other credit management professional bodies in Europe. As European companies are competing increasingly in the global market, businesses need to work together to establish professional credit management systems. MACM regards qualifications in credit management as the foundation for establishing this professionalism in Malta.

With tutors holding either MBAs or a doctorate, MACM Teaching Centre is setting high standards.

MACM is currently receiving applications for the evening courses leading to Certificate and Diploma Levels of the ICM Qualifications. Lectures will commence in October. For further details, contact Mr Busuttil on 2142-3638/9 or visit the MACM Website www.macm.org.mt